Why the Middle East Conflict Matters Today
The Middle East Conflict, particularly between Israel and Palestine, remains one of the most complex and enduring geopolitical challenges in modern times.
As of July 2025, the conflict continues to intensify with periodic escalations in Gaza and the West Bank, impacting not just the region, but global diplomacy, energy markets, and humanitarian aid networks.
[Important] Historical Roots of the Israel-Palestine Conflict
The roots of the Israel-Palestine conflict can be traced back to the early 20th century.
1917: Balfour Declaration supported a national home for Jews in Palestine.
1948: Creation of Israel led to mass displacement of Palestinians (known as the Nakba, or catastrophe).
1967: Israel captured Gaza and the West Bank during the Six-Day War.
Two-State Solution: A proposed resolution involving the creation of independent Israeli and Palestinian states. It’s supported by the UN but has faced repeated setbacks due to political disagreements and settlements.
Legal and Constitutional Aspects of the Conflict
Israel’s Nation-State Law (2018): Declared Israel as the homeland of the Jewish people, creating backlash for ignoring Arab minorities.
[Important] UN Resolutions:
UNSC Resolution 242 (1967): Called for Israeli withdrawal from occupied territories.
UNGA Resolution 194: Recognized Palestinian refugees’ right of return.
International Law Explained: Under the Geneva Conventions, occupying powers must ensure the rights of civilians. Many human rights bodies consider Israeli settlements in occupied territories as a violation of this law.
Role of International Organizations
United Nations (UN): Repeatedly urged ceasefire and peace negotiations.
UNRWA: Provides relief to Palestinian refugees.
International Criminal Court (ICC): Opened investigations into alleged war crimes on both sides.
India supports a negotiated two-state solution and abstains from votes that appear biased toward either side.
Key Reports and Committees
Goldstone Report (2009): Investigated war crimes in Gaza.
UN Human Rights Council 2021 Report: Condemned violence from both Israel and Hamas.
Recent Developments in 2025
A major escalation occurred in May 2025 after an Israeli airstrike killed senior Hamas leaders.
Over 2,100 Palestinians and 135 Israelis have died this year alone.
Ceasefire attempts by Egypt and Qatar have failed as of June 2025.
Impact on Global Geopolitics
Oil Prices: Fluctuated due to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Global Diplomacy: The U.S. is caught between supporting Israel and managing Arab allies.
Refugee Crisis: Over 5 million Palestinians are registered refugees.
India’s concern: The instability affects energy security and the safety of 9 million Indian expatriates in the Middle East.
India’s Stand and Diplomatic Relevance
India has walked a diplomatic tightrope:
Recognizes Palestine since 1988, yet maintains strong strategic ties with Israel.
Participates in UN Peacekeeping missions in the region.
India has sent humanitarian aid to both Gaza and Israel.
In 2025, India abstained from a UNHRC vote condemning Israel, urging balanced negotiations.
[Important] Statistics, Death Toll, and Humanitarian Impact
As of July 2025:
2.3 million Palestinians live in Gaza, with 80% dependent on aid.
Over 60% of Gaza’s buildings have been damaged or destroyed.
Israel’s Iron Dome intercepted over 3,000 rockets this year.
[Important] Human Rights Watch labels recent airstrikes on civilian infrastructure as potential war crimes.
Real-Life Examples & Practical Context
In June 2025, a school in Rafah sheltering refugees was bombed, killing over 50 civilians.
Families in Ashkelon, Israel, live in underground bunkers for days due to rocket threats.
Personal stories of aid workers from India highlight the tragic human cost of the conflict.
Top 3 Updates Today
Israeli Cabinet Split over extending ground operations in Gaza.
UN Security Council Emergency Session called by Russia and UAE.
India sends medical aid worth ₹50 crore to Gaza through Egypt.
Today in History – July 7
1928: Sliced bread sold for the first time in the U.S.
2005: London bombings killed 52 commuters.
1898: U.S. annexed Hawaii.
2014: Israel launched Operation Protective Edge in Gaza.
Prelims Fact – Quick Revision Bite
Q: What is the ‘Right of Return’?
A: It’s the claimed right of Palestinian refugees to return to their homes in Israel/Palestine from which they were displaced in 1948.
Conclusion
The Middle East Conflict between Israel and Palestine is not just about territorial disputes—it’s about identity, history, and international diplomacy.
For aspirants of civil services, understanding this conflict is crucial to grasping modern geopolitics, humanitarian laws, and India’s foreign policy principles. While peace remains elusive, the role of international law, humanitarian aid, and active diplomacy will continue to shape its future trajectory.
Akalumhe Jefferson is a content writer with a new found interest for crafting engaging stories that transport readers to new worlds. Although no current actual background in creative writing but there’s active love for writing
